The chaos of the dog run

1What you’re seeing

It was so stressful to go into a dog park and not know what was going to happen. No one’s in charge.

…at dog parks he just wants to stay right next to me.

Teddy was extremely timid when I’ve brought him to the dog park originally.

2Why it happens

At a run, nobody chooses who your dog plays with, and nobody is watching the play. A chaotic environment where a shy dog gets bullied by other dogs can unfortunately create an anxious dog.

When every dog in the room genuinely enjoys the company, everything else gets easier.

3What we do

• We’re really asking one question: is group play actually fun for your dog, and which group is the right fit? Active dogs go with dogs who play like they do. Laid-back dogs get a calmer room.
• Real dog play is wrestling, chasing, bowing — and cuddling and resting when needed — with “referees of play” always nearby.
• Moving around is how you catch things early: pee and poop that needs cleaning right away, the play that’s getting a little too intense, the dog who could use a breather.
• Watch your dog live on mobile or desktop.

4What changes

Play gets better, and it often carries back to the run and the street.

…now when I take him to the dog park he loves to play with all the dogs and sniff around!

…her play behavior at the dog park has improved immensely since we started bringing her to Happy Dogs.

…a lot more confident when dogs are walking past her, not running up to them and jumping. She’s much more calm and understands.